Proposal Writing & Distribution
Documentary Proposal Writing: For many filmmakers, the most difficult aspect of the process is writing about their films in an exciting and coherent narrative. And yet, this is essential in order to raise funds, whether from foundations, donors, investors or corporate sponsors. I will guide you through the creation of your entire proposal package, including treatments, budgets and distribution strategies. We will begin by conceptualizing your film, clearly defining character arc, story arc, theme and visual style. We will then write a winning proposal that will not only bring you the support you need but also provide you with a time- and money-saving roadmap to shoot and edit your film.
Documentary Distribution: Each film has its own built in audience. Together, we will develop a distribution strategy to reach that audience, both out in the world and in academia. For social issue documentaries, we will secure collaborating non-profits already working in the field to help you reach their constituencies. The film will be used not only to educate their audiences about the issue, but will also catalyze action that will further your social change agenda. In academia, there is a surefire way to market to the professors and librarians who are eager to purchase your film for classroom use. I will guide you through that process to maximize your sales and ensure the widest possible visibility for your documentary.
Fee for any of the above services are $125/hour.
“Using Jonathan to write my grant has been tremendously helpful. It was great having him ask me questions and pull all the things from me that were making me so excited about my topic, but that I just couldn’t put into words. As I’ve been shooting, the treatment he wrote has helped me to stay focused and not go off on other tangents that I’d find interesting but that I now realize would end up on the cutting room floor. I found it helpful to work with someone who had been through the process before, because it is so daunting and so vital to successful fund raising. It is money well spent.”
—Holly Mosher, Producer
